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Valuable salmon and sea trout are often targeted by illegal anglers Credit: David Cheskin/PA Wire

Almost 140 people have been prosecuted in the last 12 months in an ongoing battle against illegal fishing and poaching.

The anglers were caught committing a range of offences, from not having a rod licence to illegal netting and cruel 'foul hooking', which involves dragging hooks through the water at high speed in an attempt to impale fish on the hooks.

All but three of the 139 cases resulted in successful prosecutions and combined fines of £18,468, as well as the confiscation of equipment.

Natural Resources Wales warns illegal fishing is damaging to the angling industry, which is worth more than £150 million to the Welsh economy.

A spokesperson said: "Angling helps protect the environment, is a big draw for tourism and plays a major role in the local economy.

"It's important that we continue to crack down on illegal fishing activity so that it remains sustainable for licensed fisherman."

A group of enthusiasts are hoping that a Wales tree could win the European Tree of the Year competition.

They think that one great oak that lies in the picturesque Ceiriog Valley near Chirk has a history that gives it one of the best stories to be found between Cardiff and Kiev... Rob Shelley has been to discover more.

The Caeryder Oak is believed to be 1,000 years old Credit: Viewer picture / Emily Davies

The Caeryder Oak, in Llanhennock, near Newport, is believed to be 1,000 years old. This photograph was sent to us by a local resident who thinks it could rival the the Oak at the Gate of the Dead in the Ceiriog Valley, which has just been nominated in the European Tree of the Year competition.

If you know a tree that can rival the Ceiriog Valley Oak, send us a picture via email to wales@itv.com